Cheesy Beef Puff Pastry Pockets
Introduction
Cheesy Beef Puff Pastry Pockets are flaky, golden parcels filled with savory seasoned beef and gooey melted cheese. They’re perfect as party snacks, lunchbox treats, or a quick dinner paired with a salad. Using store-bought puff pastry makes them easy and impressive with minimal effort—crispy on the outside, juicy and cheesy on the inside.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 8 pockets
Ingredients
Filling
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 tablespoon oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cumin (optional)
2 tablespoons tomato paste or ketchup
½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Pastry
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Sesame or nigella seeds (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Prepare the Beef Filling
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Cook the Beef
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
Season & Cool
Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and tomato paste. Cook 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in shredded cheese.
Prepare Puff Pastry
Unroll pastry and cut into 8 equal squares.
Fill & Seal
Spoon beef mixture into the center of each square. Fold into triangles or rectangles. Press edges with a fork to seal.
Egg Wash
Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with seeds if using.
Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Cool & Serve
Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling.
Use cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Make ahead and freeze unbaked pockets for later use.
Serving Ideas
Serve with ketchup, garlic mayo, chili sauce, or a fresh green salad.
Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Beef Puff Pastry Pockets are crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—an easy recipe that looks fancy but comes together fast. Perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to be a hit!